Archives for October 22, 2009

‘Fitzpatrick, in the last nine games he’s been in is 5-3-1 … including a live streak of four straight wins.’

‘In addition to Buffalo’s quarterback situation, the defense is hurting as well. Defensive tackle Kyle Williams (shoulder) was sidelined for a second straight day, as was safety Donte Whitner (ankle). Cornerback Terrence McGee (knee) and safety Bryan Scott (ankle) each took part in practice in a limited role on Thursday after sitting out Wednesday’s session.’

‘”There comes a point in this league where you can’t really learn much from watching film and throwing scout team balls,” Fitzpatrick said. “It’s getting out there, and I felt really comfortable out there on Sunday and even today in practice. It’s just knowing how to be a pro, how to prepare and work when you are the starter.”‘

‘Panthers 31, Bills 9.’

‘Bills, 17-14.’

‘Panthers 23, Bills 16.’

‘Parrish was careful in saying he didn’t want to “bad-mouth” anyone, including coach Dick Jauron, after practice Thursday. Noting that his “resume speaks for itself,” the fifth-year receiver still questioned the team’s decision to strip him of his punt-returning duties by leaving him inactive against the Jets last weekend.’

‘”He’s hit the wall,” the AFC executive said. “I think he has. I think it’s done or close to it. He’ll have a couple of games here and there where he shows up, but big picture, long term, I think it’s done.”‘

‘”Every night we’re all calling some type of meeting at Donte’s house or here at the facility and we’re watching extra film so we’ve been putting in extra time,” said Byrd.’

‘"He’s got a big arm," said Bills offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt, asked to list Fitzpatrick’s strengths. "That’s one of the things in stretching the field that is more comfortable to him. Protection issues are something that he’s really strong in, as far as determining who’s coming and getting protections suggested to get that taken care of. I think those are some of his strong points. His ability to run is something that we like."’

‘I don’t think Fitzpatrick is the answer. But the NFL is a "win-now" league. Players live in the moment. After three grisly weeks of offense with Edwards at QB, you can’t blame them for getting a surge of good feeling about Fitzpatrick. One big pass and one comeback will do wonders for the overall mood.’

‘Asked if he thought Parrish was pressing, Jauron said: "Probably. He’s a great effort guy and a very competitive guy. He wants to make plays. He really wants to make plays, so I’d say that’s probably right."’

‘”I wouldn’t really say there’s any difference from my standpoint,” running back Fred Jackson said when asked to compare the two quarterbacks. “(Ryan) knows what he’s doing, he prepares like he’s the No. 1 guy and he understands the offense and knows what he’s doing when he’s in there. We’re all comfortable with him being in there.”‘

‘In addition to quarterback Trent Edwards, who is recovering from a concussion, safeties Donte Whitner and Bryan Scott (ankles), offensive tackle Jonathan Scott (ankle), defensive tackle Kyle Williams (shoulder) and cornerback Terrence McGee (knee) all were on the sidelines. So was backup tight end Shawn Nelson (illness), while defensive end Chris Kelsay was limited due to a sore eye.’

‘I want to be involved in a win,’ Smith says (Charlotte Observer)

It ain’t over unless the virtuoso stops singing (Charlotte Observer)

Panthers acquire former Pack defensive tackle (Charlotte Observer)

Fox sees no difference in Delhomme’s play (Gaston Gazette)

Smith: I want to win, but I also want to be involved in a win (Gaston Gazette)

Special teamers will miss suspended Wesley this week (Rock Hill Herald)

Smith continues to feel left out (Rock Hill Herald)

Panthers know they need to get ball to Smith (AP)

Panthers sign Lewis, put Wesley on suspended list (AP)

Inside slant (The Sports Xchange)

Strategy and personnel (The Sports Xchange)

Notes, quotes (The Sports Xchange)

Moving past passing issues (Panthers.com)

Tank-ful to be haome (Panthers.com)

Panthers sign ex-49ers safety Lewis (Panthers.com)

Heavy artillery on d-line (Panthers.com)